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Which of the following statements about handling and storing documentary evidence is not true?

a. Documents received should be initialed and dated by the fraud examiner.
b. The original document should be preserved for forensic examinations.
c. Photocopied documents should be stored in transparent plastic envelopes.
d. Documents should never be stapled or paper-clipped.

User Mohit Shah
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1 Answer

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Final answer:

The incorrect statement about the handling and storage of documentary evidence is 'Documents should never be stapled or paper-clipped.' It's critical to avoid damage when attaching documents, not the use of staples or clips inherently.

Step-by-step explanation:

The statement about handling and storing documentary evidence that is not true is: d. Documents should never be stapled or paper-clipped.

While it is important to preserve the integrity and condition of documentary evidence, the use of staples or paper clips is not absolutely prohibited; the primary concern is avoiding damage to the original document.

In professional practice, documents may be stapled or clipped if such action does not compromise the evidence.

However, special care should be taken to ensure that any attachments do not cause damage, such as indents or marks, and alternatives such as plastic sleeves should be considered for storing documents.

It is essential to preserve the original document for forensic examinations (b. The original document should be preserved for forensic examinations), as original documents might contain important physical clues that are not visible on copies.

Photocopied documents should indeed be stored appropriately to prevent deterioration or loss; using transparent plastic envelopes is recommended for photocopies (c. Photocopied documents should be stored in transparent plastic envelopes).

Also, documents received as evidence should be initialed and dated by the person examining them to maintain a chain of custody (a. Documents received should be initialed and dated by the fraud examiner).

User Rajen Trivedi
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